The Pop-Up Park

Openhouse Gallery brings the outdoors in with their cheerful winter retreat

New Yorkers looking for a unique escape from the cold will find just that—along with a bit of whimsy—at Openhouse Gallery's "Park Here." In an offshoot of the pop-up shop sensation, the gallery has converted almost all of its 4,500-square-foot Soho space into an indoor, temperature-controlled "park." Designed to replicate the outdoor experience in every sense, the area is carpeted in recycled plastic grass with faux flowers, trees, and rocks—even a wrap-around photomural on the walls. What's more, birds chirp from strategically-placed cages, soothing LAFCO/Santa Maria Novella scents waft through the space, and a glow comes from impressive skylights and event lighting. Among the park's many partnerships, Fatboy, the quirky Dutch design firm, has placed freestanding hammocks and oversized metallic-toned beanbags throughout. (Those seats should be popular—free Starbucks is provided to anyone lounging on the pieces.) "Park Here" will hold wine tastings, yoga classes, and private parties during its wintertime run, and host a rotating mix of food vendors.